The Miami Dolphins are an American professional football team based in Miami, Florida. They are part of the National Football League (NFL), and are the oldest major-league professional sports franchise in the state of Florida.

The Miami Dolphins are part of the American Football Conference (AFC) and play in the AFC East Division with the New England Patriots, Buffalo Bills and league rivals The New York Jets.

The Dolphins play home games at Dolphins Stadium (formerly known as Joe Robbie Stadium and Pro Player Stadium)

History

The team was founded by Joseph Robbie and began playing in the American Football League as an expansion team in 1966. They joined the NFL with the AFL-NFL Merger.

The team made its first Super Bowl appearance following the 1971 season in Super Bowl VI, losing to the Dallas Cowboys. In 1972, the Dolphins completed the NFL's fourth undefeated regular season and won the Super Bowl, making them the only team to complete a Perfect Season. The team also won Super Bowl VIII, making them first team to appear in three consecutive Super Bowls, and the second team to win back-to-back championships. Miami also appeared in Super Bowl XVII and Super Bowl XIX, but lost both games.

The Dolphins were coached by Don Shula, the most successful head coach in professional football history, for the majority of their history. Under his leadership, The Dolphins had losing records in only two of 26 seasons. Six future Hall of Fame members played for Miami during the 70s, including running back Larry Csonka and quarterback Bob Griese. During the 1980s and 1990s quarterback Dan Marino became the most prolific passer in NFL history, breaking numerous league passing records. He led the Dolphins to numerous playoff appearances and Super Bowl XIX.